in the UK for Physics

£17M

STEMLab Facility - new for 2017

Overview

Loughborough University has a long history of internationally recognised research in the study and development of new materials, and our Physics of Materials MSc provides you with the opportunity to work with expert researchers in the field. Our Physics of Materials MSc is a research-focused comprehensive programme designed to equip you with the advanced theoretical and mathematical skills of a professional physicist.

The ability to create new materials that are stronger, lighter, or perform better, is the key to advancements across all areas of science, technology and engineering. This cutting edge postgraduate degree programme gives you the chance to explore, with our expert researchers, the physics of new materials, their preparation and characterisation, at a University that is internationally recognised for its contributions to the fields of physics and materials science.

Over the course of the Physics of Materials MSc programme, you will learn how to work with modern equipment and make an analysis of your own experimental and theoretical data, as well as applying modern physics methods to assess materials, examine properties of novel materials, and develop the advanced theoretical and quantitative skills that are highly sought after by employers.

The Physics of Materials MSc contains a combination of supervised research work, development of research skills and taught material designed to equip you with the skills needed to make an impact in the wide variety of industries whose successes are driven by the development of new materials, or to continue with your academic research.

What makes this programme different?

Research-focused

Delivered by internationally recognised experts

A wide range of experimental facilities

Who should study this programme?

Our Physics of Materials MSc is designed for students who are looking to develop advanced skills in the following: problem solving; experimental, mathematical or computational techniques; scientific report writing and presentation skills; obtaining and understanding information from the scientific literature; the collection and analysis of data or the development of theoretical models.

Entry requirements

An honours degree (2:2 or above) or equivalent overseas qualification in science or engineering, or appropriate professional experience.

English Language Requirements

All applicants for admission to Loughborough University must have a qualification in English Language before they can be admitted to any course or programme, whether their first language is English or not.

IELTS: 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.0 in all elements.

What you'll study

The modules on our Physics of Materials MSc aim to provide you with an opportunity to apply your broad understanding of basic principles to the solution of a specific and detailed problem pertinent to an area of current research activity.

Modules

Physics of Materials MSc covers a wide range of topics; to give you a taster we have expanded on some of the core modules affiliated with this programme and the specific assessment methods associated with each module.

Compulsory modules

Mathematical Methods for Interdisciplinary Sciences - 15 credits

This module introduces you to theories and methods originally developed by physicists, in modelling a variety of interdisciplinary sciences including bio-physics, psychophysics and economics. It also develops mathematical skills in preparation for research projects.

Superconductivity and Nanoscience - 15 credits

Obtain an understanding of the principles underlying applied superconductivity and the functioning of superconducting devices.

Characterisation Techniques in Solid State Physics - 15 credits

Gain knowledge and understanding of the range of techniques available for characterisation of bulk and thin films with an emphasis on functional materials.

Research Methods in Physics - 15 credits

Introduces the methods available for searching current literature, to gain experience in conducting a survey of research literature, and to give students an opportunity to learn about the principles of a particular research technique.

Research Project - 90 credits

Undertake an individual research project under the supervision of your departmental supervisor, further developing your research skills and enabling you to make a contribution to the advancement of your subject.

Optional modules

Polymer Properties - 15 credits

Introduces the principles underlying the properties of polymers in relation to their utilisation in industrial applications.

Polymer Science - 15 credits

Develops a broad understanding of polymer science and a deeper understanding of selected aspects.

Advanced Characterisation Techniques - 15 credits

Explores the principles and practicalities of the various forms of microscopy and surface analysis techniques used in materials science.

Simulation of Advanced Materials and Processes - 15 credits

Introduces the concepts in numerical simulation of advanced materials and processes, developing theoretical and practical experience in simulating mechanical behaviour of advanced materials and modelling processes related to these materials using finite element modelling techniques.

Materials Modelling - 15 credits

Covers the basic principles associated with the modelling of materials, materials systems and processing of materials.

How you'll be assessed

Modules are assessed by a combination of examinations, coursework and group work.

How you'll study

You will study through a mixture of lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, group work and guided independent study, including your own substantial research project.

Seminars

Lectures

Tutorials

Independent study

Group work

Practical sessions

Supervision

Workshops

Your personal and professional development

Our Department of Physics is committed to helping you develop the skills and attributes you need to progress successfully in your chosen career.

Future career prospects

The aim of the Physics of Materials MSc programme is to equip you with the key skills you need for employment in industry, public service or academic research. Physics graduates are highly sought after and work in a range of industries and roles.

Graduate destinations

Employers of choice for our graduates include the Ministry of Defence, DSTL, BAE Systems, BP, Rolls-Royce, and Intelligent Energy, in roles such as Business Analyst, Physicist, Technical Manager and Financial Trader. Other students have gone on to study at PhD level.

Your personal development

On successful completion of the programme you should be able to:

Formulate problems pertinent to a current area of active research in precise terms and identify key issues, construct logical arguments and use advanced technical language correctly.

Be proficient in the use of scientific and IT solutions to support a research project

Identify, retrieve, critique and compare demanding texts and use them to support a research thesis in a coherent and appropriate manner.

Present complex information by means of written reports and orally to a professionally acceptable standard.

Fees and funding

UK/EU:

£9,500

International:

£21,000

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services.
University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Special arrangements are made for payments by part-time students.